The political landscape of Nigeria’s North-Central region is currently embroiled in a contentious debate surrounding the performance of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. A prominent group of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders from the region has leveled accusations of underperformance against Yilwatda, citing his perceived inaction in the face of escalating humanitarian crises, particularly within his home state of Plateau. This critique comes against a backdrop of escalating violence, displacement, and suffering in several communities across the North-Central, raising questions about the government’s response and the role of its appointed officials.
The North-Central APC Forum, spearheaded by Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, has publicly voiced its concerns, accusing Yilwatda of being largely absent from the scene of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. The forum pointed to data from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), highlighting the significant loss of life and widespread displacement in Plateau State between March 27 and April 2, 2024, a period during which they allege Yilwatda was conspicuously absent. The group’s critique emphasizes the minister’s purported failure to visit affected communities, offer solace, and provide tangible support to those grappling with the devastating consequences of violence and displacement.
Further deepening the controversy is the forum’s assertion that it was Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, who undertook a visit to Bokkos Local Government Area in December 2024 to assess the situation and engage with displaced persons. This action, according to the forum, should have been the responsibility of the substantive minister, Yilwatda. The group lamented the perceived lack of visibility and action from the minister entrusted with overseeing national humanitarian efforts, raising concerns about the effectiveness of his leadership in addressing the pressing needs of the affected populations. The forum also raised questions about the minister’s public engagement, suggesting that many citizens in Plateau State remain unaware of his representation in the federal cabinet.
In response to the mounting criticism, Professor Yilwatda vehemently denied the allegations, characterizing them as politically motivated. He insisted on having made multiple visits to crisis-stricken areas, providing tangible support in the form of essential supplies such as rice, roofing materials, foodstuff, and cement. Yilwatda cited his interventions in Barkin Ladi and the aftermath of the Katako market fire as evidence of his commitment to addressing the humanitarian needs of the affected communities. He maintained that his efforts have been substantial and visible, challenging the forum’s narrative of inaction. He even offered to provide video evidence of his visits and encouraged independent verification of his claims.
Yilwatda’s defense also contained a counter-accusation, questioning the political motives of the North-Central APC Forum. He challenged the group’s contribution to the APC in the region they claim to represent, suggesting that their criticism is rooted in political maneuvering rather than genuine concern for the humanitarian situation. This exchange exposes a deeper rift within the APC’s North-Central structure, with regional representation and humanitarian concerns becoming focal points of intra-party tension. The timing of this public dispute, shortly after Yilwatda’s replacement of Senator Simon Lalong, adds another layer of complexity to the situation, suggesting possible lingering political undercurrents from the previous administration.
This clash between the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and the North-Central APC Forum highlights a broader challenge in addressing humanitarian crises within a complex political landscape. The politicization of humanitarian aid and disaster response can hinder effective service delivery and undermine the trust between the government and the people it serves. While the minister maintains his commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis, the critical voices from within his own party raise concerns about transparency, accountability, and the need for more proactive engagement with affected communities. The situation underscores the importance of open dialogue, independent verification of claims, and a focus on the well-being of vulnerable populations above political maneuvering. The ongoing debate necessitates a thorough assessment of the government’s response to the humanitarian crisis and a renewed commitment to ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most, irrespective of political affiliations.
